THE significant contribution of many members of a Cornish running club has been officially recognised by England Athletics at its Regional Volunteer Awards.

Hayle Runners was awarded gold for Community Project of the Year in the South West region at a celebratory event in Exeter.

England Athletics host the awards to highlight the work carried out by volunteers whose efforts often go under-appreciated.

Olympian Jo Pavey sat alongside several Hayle Runners who travelled to the event on Saturday, September 27 to receive high praise for the club’s fundraising achievements.

Since 2022, the efforts of Hayle Runners members have raised more than £4,500 for Hayle Food Bank.

Alongside the financial contributions of members, who raise money by competing in challenges and competitions that push them to their limits, club members also make physical donations of food and sundries each month.

Hayle Runners welfare officer, Jennie Wren, said: “We can’t put a figure on those donations but we know how much they are valued each and every month. We are delighted to have won this community award from England Athletics, but more so to know what a difference those contributions make to our local food bank.”

Lyn from Hayle Food Bank praised the help the charity receives from so many people and organisations in Hayle.

She said: “Big or small it all makes a difference. Big thanks to Hayle Runners, their generosity of monies, goods and time is a large part of what we can do to help those in need in Hayle.”

Hayle Runners club chairman, Richard Collett, said: “We're delighted and honoured to receive this award. At Hayle Runners, we've always believed that running is about more than just miles – it's about people.

“Our partnership with Hayle Food Bank has brought our members and the wider community together to make a tangible difference to those facing hardship locally. This recognition is a testament to the generosity, energy and compassion of our runners, volunteers and supporters. We're proud of what we've achieved so far and inspired to keep going, proving that a running club can be a real force for good in Hayle.”

Sam Collier won a place in the London Marathon in a Hayle Runners ballot and raised money for the local charity.

She attended the awards with Jennie and said: “From me to my friends and family it’s a chance again to thank all of you who gave so generously and supported my London Marathon journey - thank you from the bottom of my heart.”

The partnership between the club and the food bak has highlighted hidden hardship in the local area, with many Hayle Runners saying that it's changed how they view the community and motivated them to keep giving. By combining sport with service, Hayle Runners have shown that a club can be a selfless force for positive change in the community.

Collett added: “This involvement has turned club events into more than just sporting occasions, they've become moments of community action.”